It takes a brave man to say he'll take the flak if a film fails, and in the same breath mention that it would be to everyone's credit if it succeeds. This is precisely what Salman Khan has gone on record to say about his recent release VEER, the story of which is credited to him as well.

It also takes a brave man to dream of a magnum opus such as this. The period, the drama, the grandiose feel of it all and the amount of money pumped in, reportedly Rs 50 Cr.

Set in the 19th century, this period drama is no classic epic, but it has the trappings to keep you glued to your seat. Yes, there are loopholes in the screenplay and script and some silly moments as well, but once you see the brave attempt by the makers you cannot but laud it.

Only thing, they could have been more careful about the costumes worn by the lead actors. Difficult yes, but if enough research was done and as much importance given to it as the fight sequences, it could well have been another GADAR.

The story told is about Pindaris, a group of tribals, who were true to their word, and who preferred death to betrayal. It's their fight to unite India, to fight the British who ruled then. A very interesting plot thought of by Salman, who plays VEER. The film also has interesting twists even though 'Boy meets girl from enemy camp' remains the central theme. It moves away from the staid formula of parents opposing and lovers uniting against all odds.

Here, Veer wins the heart if his girl in enemy camp and also convinces his tribe to look beyond to the larger picture; that of uniting India in its fight for freedom rather than fighting against one Royal family to exact revenge. The plot has its heart in the right place.

Salman Khan as Veer is dashing and dynamic. He takes off from where he left in WANTED and LONDON DREAMS. His raw star power is full on display. Mithun Chakraborty is as solid as ever. Ditto Jackie Shroff. Much has been made of Newcomer Zarine Khan's resemblance to Katrina Kaif. According to me, the girl is a spitting image (healthier version) of Jacqueline Fernandez, who recently debuted in ALADIN.

Someone has rightly said, ''Let the attempt be a failure, but let there be no failure to attempt.'' Like a true Veer, Salman has taken a gamble, it's now left to be seen how the audience reacts to this fight to get the British out of India.

Somehow, I get this feeling that the dice is loaded in favour of Veer Salman!